I recently read that the Governor of New York and the Mayor of New York City refer to the views of pro-lifers in New York as "extreme." I beg to differ.
I am a pro-life father of two precious children; my beautiful daughter Chloe was born with Down syndrome in 2003. I love New York, and my family and I have had many awesome memories in New York City. I have always found the people of New York to be "extremely" accepting, kind, and accommodating to my daughter Chloe. New York City is a priority destination when we plan family excursions.
Every fall season in New York City there is an amazing video presentation sponsored by the NDSS (National Down Syndrome Society) shown on the big screen in Times Square featuring the brilliant faces and ABILITIES of individuals with Down syndrome. My daughter Chloe has been included twice in this video, and the experience is "extremely" magical and unparalleled for all people in attendance.
These human beings who were once excluded from schools, communities and cultural events because of intolerant views are showcased on the big screen in the Big Apple. This is truly priceless! Many people in our society fail to realize that by some estimates as many as 90%+ of individuals diagnosed prenatally with Down syndrome are targeted and eliminated because they are "flawed." I'd submit that this is the ultimate "extreme" instance of intolerance and prejudice.
Let's look beyond the issue of children prenatally diagnosed with Down syndrome or other genetic anomalies. What would the response be from the Governor of New York and the Mayor of New York City if genetic links were found for autism, obesity, depression, ADHD, or shortness and then utilized to eliminate these individuals prenatally because of misguided cultural views?
Would pro-life advocates who protested the slaughter of these "differing" unborn individuals be "extremists" and therefore unwelcomed in the state of New York? Would there be "extreme" outrage and protests across our nation and in New York? New York should be the foundation and center for human inclusion both prenatal and postnatal, not the opposite.
I live in the great state of Pennsylvania. As a tolerant, accepting, loving person I would like to invite the Governor of New York and Mayor of New York City to visit my state and look into the eyes of my daughter Chloe to see her "extreme" beauty, unconditional love, purity and ABILITIES.
Chloe will honestly tell you she "Loves New York" and I know she is still welcomed to visit the Big Apple. My wish and prayer is that one day soon all "extremely" tolerant people will embrace and accept the most valuable treasure we have as a nation - Human Life.